Herb & supplement monograph

Indian Cassia Drug Interactions, Uses, Effectiveness, Safety & More

Medically reviewed by Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD, BCPS ·Updated June 2026

What is this page for?

First and foremost: how Indian Cassia interacts with medications. The heart of this page is the interaction list — every drug Indian Cassia is known to interact with, and how serious each one is.

But these pages have grown well beyond that into a full monograph — what Indian Cassia is, what people use it for and how strong the evidence is, its safety and side effects, and answers to the questions we’re asked most — written and reviewed by the clinical staff at HelloPharmacist. It’s educational information from our licensed clinical databases, not medical advice, and we don’t sell or endorse products. Our editorial policy

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Indian Cassia Drug Interactions: The Bottom Line

From the HelloPharmacist Editorial Team · Updated July 2026

Based on the available evidence, the overall risk of a clinically significant Indian Cassia drug interaction appears low for most people. None of the listed interactions are rated major, and the evidence behind them is limited, resting on theoretical effects or early research rather than well-established human findings.

Interactions deserving the most attention

The clearest concern involves diabetes medications. Human research found that large amounts of Indian Cassia lowered fasting blood sugar substantially, so combining it with these drugs could push blood sugar lower than intended, and glucose levels deserve close watching. There is also a theoretical concern with diuretics (water pills), because animal research suggests Indian Cassia may increase urine output and potassium loss, though this has not been shown in people.

What the rest of the list means

The long list of interacting medications mostly reflects these two broad drug categories rather than many separate proven problems. Most entries are precautionary, describing possible additive effects rather than harm documented in people. In fact, the diuretic concern has so far appeared only in animal studies, and even the blood sugar effect came from very large amounts taken over months.

Check your medications against Indian Cassia

Based on HelloPharmacist’s Indian Cassia interaction data and reviewed under our editorial standards.

Interaction report

Drugs that interact with Indian Cassia

161 medications have a known interaction with Indian Cassia, graded by severity. Select any drug for the full evidence-based detail.

Don’t want to scroll the list? Just ask.

Tell us the medications you take and we’ll check each one against Indian Cassia using our pharmacist-reviewed interaction data.

AI summaries are generated from our Indian Cassia interaction data for education only — always confirm with your pharmacist. How we use AI

2,830 drugs

Read The List Like a Pharmacist

What Severity, Likelihood & Evidence Mean

Severity — How Serious It Can Be

Major. Clinically significant; generally best avoided, or used only under direct professional supervision.
Moderate. May need monitoring, a dose adjustment, or separating the times you take each one.
Minor. Generally not clinically significant, but still worth noting and mentioning to your pharmacist.
No known interaction. Checked against our sources with nothing documented — not the same as proven safety.

Likelihood — How Well It’s Documented

Likely. Well-controlled human studies have demonstrated the likely existence of this interaction
Probable. Interaction has not been documented in well-controlled studies, however, the interaction has been demonstrated in some small human studies or in controlled animal studies in conjunction with multiple case reports.
Possible. Interaction has been documented in animal or in lab research, or the interaction has been documented in humans but is limited to case reports or conflicting clinical research exists
Unlikely. Interaction has been demonstrated in animal or in lab research but has been shown not to occur in humans.

Where This Data Comes From

Interaction records are evidence-graded and sourced from the Natural Medicines database (TRC Healthcare), the same reference used by pharmacists and hospitals.
Each drug listed above links to the full report for that exact Indian Cassia combination — clinical detail, likelihood, evidence level, and citations.
Content is reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists — see our data sources and editorial standards.

The big picture

The kinds of drugs Indian Cassia affects

Every type of medication (drug category) Indian Cassia is known to interact with. Open any category for the detail — or search your exact drug in the checker above.

All 2 drug categories Indian Cassia interacts with

Antidiabetes DrugsDiuretic Drugs

Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, Indian cassia might have additive effects with antidiabetes drugs. Clinical research shows that taking Indian cassia 10 grams three times daily for 3 months while following a reduced carbohydrate diet can decrease fasting blood glucose levels by up to 41% in patients with diabetes. Monitor blood glucose levels closely; dose adjustments of antidiabetes drugs might be necessary.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B

Diuretic Drugs

Theoretically, Indian cassia might increase the risk of potassium depletion in patients taking diuretic drugs. However, this has not been shown in humans. Indian cassia leaf extract 200-400 mg/kg body weight has shown mild diuretic activity in animal research. The effect of Indian cassia on urine volume and electrolyte loss was similar to that of furosemide. Until more is known, use with caution.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D

Monograph

Indian Cassia: Uses, Safety & Side Effects

Medically reviewed by Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD, BCPS · Reviewed June 2026 ·

The bottom line

Indian Cassia (Cinnamomum tamala), also known as Indian bay leaf or tejpat, is an aromatic leaf used widely as a cooking spice and in traditional medicine across South Asia. Human evidence for its health benefits is very limited, so it is best enjoyed as a culinary spice rather than relied on to treat any condition. Used as food it is generally well tolerated, but talk to your pharmacist or doctor before using concentrated supplements or oils.

Scientific name: Cinnamomum tamala
Family: Lauraceae
Part used: Leaves (often called tejpat or Indian bay leaf) and bark
Common forms: Whole dried leaves used in cooking, powder, tea, and essential oil

People commonly use it for

Flavoring food
Digestive upset
Blood sugar support
Cold and cough relief
Antimicrobial

Popular and traditional uses — not proof it works. See “Uses & effectiveness” below for the evidence.

Safety at a glance

OverallUse caution

Generally safe as a food spice, but concentrated supplements and oils are not well studied.

PregnancyInsufficient reliable information

Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using.

Read the full pregnancy detail

BreastfeedingInsufficient reliable information

Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using.

Read the full breastfeeding detail

Pregnancy & breastfeeding ratings are from Natural Medicines (Therapeutic Research Center). Safety guidance is general; always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor for your situation.

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Overview

Indian Cassia comes from Cinnamomum tamala, an evergreen tree in the laurel family that grows in the Himalayan foothills and other parts of South Asia. Its dried leaves are commonly called tejpat or Indian bay leaf, and they have a warm, clove-like, slightly cinnamon aroma.

The leaves are most often used as a cooking spice to flavor rice dishes, curries, and spice blends like garam masala. In traditional systems of medicine such as Ayurveda, the leaves, bark, and oil have also been used for digestion, coughs, and other complaints.

It is worth noting that the name 'cassia' is also used for true cinnamon relatives (like Cinnamomum cassia) and for the unrelated senna plant. Indian Cassia (tejpat) is a distinct plant from these, even though the names sometimes overlap.

How it works

The leaves and oil contain aromatic compounds such as cinnamaldehyde, eugenol, and various essential oil constituents, which give the spice its smell and may explain its proposed effects.

In laboratory and animal research, extracts of Cinnamomum tamala have shown antioxidant activity, the ability to slow the growth of some bacteria and fungi, and effects on blood sugar and fat metabolism. These are preliminary findings.

Because most of this work was done in test tubes or animals, it is not clear whether eating or supplementing the spice produces meaningful effects in the human body.

Effectiveness

Does Indian Cassia work?

Here’s what the research actually shows for each use — graded by Natural Medicines and reviewed by Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD.

Evidence overview · 2 uses evaluated

2 Insufficient evidence

How to read these evidence grades

Natural Medicines’ 7-point scale. We show each rating’s label word-for-word.

1EffectiveStrong, consistent evidence it works.

2Likely EffectiveGood evidence, though not yet conclusive.

3Possibly EffectiveSome evidence suggests a benefit.

4Possibly IneffectiveSome evidence it may not help.

5Likely IneffectiveFairly strong evidence it doesn’t help.

6IneffectiveStrong evidence it doesn’t work.

7Insufficient Reliable Evidence to RateToo little research to say either way.

For Indian Cassia, current evidence isn’t strong enough to rate any specific use. The conditions it has been studied for are listed below.

Also studied for 2 conditions — evidence insufficient to rate

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Diabetes

Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Preliminary clinical research shows that taking Indian cassia dried leaf, 10 grams three times daily for up to 3 months, lowers fasting blood glucose levels to 100 mg/dL or less in about 50% of patients with diabetes. However, the patients in this study also followed a reduced carbohydrate diet. Therefore it is unclear if the improvement was due to Indian cassia, the diet, or the combination.

Sources Ref 94272

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Muscle strength

Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

One small clinical trial in young, resistance-trained males shows that taking a combination product (CinDura, Laila Nutraceuticals) containing Indian cassia and mangosteen extracts, 400 mg twice daily for 42 days, increases muscle strength and endurance when compared with placebo. Single bench and leg presses improved by approximately 23.5 and 29.3 kg, respectively, compared with 3.4 and 5.2 kg, respectively, in those taking placebo. Also, the number of leg extension repetitions increased by 6.5 compared to an increase of 2 with placebo. It is unclear if these benefits are due to Indian cassia, mangosteen, or the combination.

Sources Ref 101079

Source & disclaimer. Effectiveness ratings and evidence summaries are provided by Natural Medicines (Therapeutic Research Center) and shown as licensed. Where Natural Medicines hasn’t rated a use, HelloPharmacist’s pharmacists may add their own reviewed rating and evidence (each such entry is labeled). This is educational information, not medical advice — talk with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, stopping, or changing a supplement.

Safety & precautions

As a spice used in normal food amounts, Indian Cassia is generally considered safe for most people. Concentrated supplements, extracts, and essential oils are much stronger and have not been well studied for safety.

People with diabetes should be cautious if using medicinal amounts, since spices in this family may affect blood sugar. Anyone with a known allergy to cinnamon or related plants should avoid it. Essential oils should never be swallowed undiluted.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Using the spice to flavor food is likely fine, but there is not enough information on concentrated supplements or oils. To be safe, avoid medicinal or high-dose forms during pregnancy and breastfeeding unless your doctor approves.

Always talk with a pharmacist or doctor before starting any supplement, especially if you take medications or have a health condition.

Side effects

When used as a cooking spice, Indian Cassia rarely causes problems. Some people may experience mild digestive upset.

Allergic reactions are possible, especially in people sensitive to cinnamon or other plants in the laurel family. Concentrated essential oils can irritate the skin and mouth and may be harmful if swallowed in large amounts.

Because the supplement forms are not well studied, the full range of possible side effects is not known. Stop using it and seek care if you notice a rash, swelling, or trouble breathing.

Dosing

There is no established standardized medicinal dose for Indian Cassia. As a spice, people use small amounts of the dried leaf to flavor cooking, which is the most common and best-understood use.

For capsules, powders, teas, or oils, follow the directions on the product label, since strength varies between products. More is not necessarily better or safer.

Check with your pharmacist or doctor before taking concentrated supplements, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have a medical condition, or take other medicines.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Indian Cassia & Pregnancy

Insufficient reliable information

Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using.

Indian Cassia & Breastfeeding

Insufficient reliable information

Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using.

DISCLAIMER: This tool is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions.

© 2026 Therapeutic Research Center

Pregnancy & lactation ratings: Natural Medicines, Therapeutic Research Center

References & further reading

The 3 references that drive our Indian Cassia monograph and interaction data, from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database. Citations with a link open the study on PubMed or the publisher’s site.

Singh TN, Upadhyay BN, Tewari CM, Tripathi SN. Management of diabetes mellitus (prameha) with inula racemosa and cinnamomum tamala. Anc Sci Life. 1985 Jul;5(1):9-16.
Rahman M, Khatun A, Islam MM, et al. Evaluation of antimicrobial, cytotoxic, thrombolytic, diuretic properties and total phenolic content of Cinnamomum tamala. International Journal of Green Pharmacy. 2013 Jul 1;7(3):236. DOI
Konda MR, Alluri KV, Janardhanan PK, Trimurtulu G, Sengupta K. Combined extracts of Garcinia mangostana fruit rind and Cinnamomum tamala leaf supplementation enhances muscle strength and endurance in resistance trained males. J Int Soc Sports Nutr 2018;15

Keep reading

This information is for education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always check with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, stopping, or combining supplements and medications.

Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.

DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.

Brand directory

Brands that make products with Indian Cassia

5 brands in our database make a supplement containing Indian Cassia.

Banyan Botanicals 697 products doTERRA 208 products Himalaya 287 products Nature's Sunshine 1,360 products Vedic Powders 20 products

Product directory

Supplement products with Indian Cassia

31 products in our database contain Indian Cassia. Open any to see its full ingredient list and every drug interaction we check.

Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Indian Cassia: Common Questions

What is Indian Cassia used for, and does it work?

People use Indian Cassia for a range of reasons, but according to the Natural Medicines database the current clinical evidence is insufficient to confirm it works for the specific conditions it has been studied for. See the graded list on this page, and talk to your pharmacist or doctor before relying on it for any condition.

Does Indian Cassia interact with prescription medications?

Yes. We list 161 medications with a known interaction with Indian Cassia. Use the checker above to see how Indian Cassia interacts with a specific drug.

How are Indian Cassia interactions rated?

Each interaction is graded major, moderate, or minor based on how clinically significant it is and the strength of the evidence behind it. Major interactions are the most serious and are best avoided, or used only under close professional supervision.

Is it safe to take Indian Cassia with my medications?

It depends on the specific medication. Some combinations are fine, while others call for monitoring, timing changes, or should be avoided. Check your exact drug above and confirm with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, stopping, or changing anything.

Where does this Indian Cassia interaction information come from?

Our interaction data is built on the Natural Medicines database — an evidence-graded reference for vitamins, herbs, and supplements — and is reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists, who may add clinical context.

What is Indian Cassia used for?

It is mainly used as a fragrant cooking spice (Indian bay leaf or tejpat). Traditionally it has also been used for digestion, coughs, and general wellness, but strong human evidence for these uses is lacking.

Is Indian Cassia the same as the bay leaves in the grocery store?

Not exactly. Indian bay leaf comes from Cinnamomum tamala and has a clove-and-cinnamon aroma, while the common Mediterranean bay leaf comes from a different plant (Laurus nobilis). They are not interchangeable in flavor.

Is it safe to use during pregnancy?

Using it in normal food amounts is likely fine, but concentrated supplements and oils have not been studied enough, so it is best to avoid medicinal doses during pregnancy unless your doctor approves.

Can Indian Cassia help with blood sugar?

Some early lab and animal studies suggest possible blood-sugar effects, but there is not enough human evidence to recommend it for diabetes. Do not use it in place of your prescribed medication.

Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy

Keep exploring

Products that contain Indian Cassia

A rotating sample of real supplements in our database that list Indian Cassia — open any to see its full ingredients and every drug interaction we check.

See all 31 products with Indian Cassia →

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Indian Cassia Drug Interactions, Uses, Effectiveness, Safety & More

Your Choice:

Indian Cassia Drug Interactions: The Bottom Line

Drugs that interact with Indian Cassia

Don’t want to scroll the list? Just ask.

What Severity, Likelihood & Evidence Mean

Severity — How Serious It Can Be

Likelihood — How Well It’s Documented

Where This Data Comes From

The kinds of drugs Indian Cassia affects

Indian Cassia: Uses, Safety & Side Effects

Overview

How it works

Does Indian Cassia work?

Safety & precautions

Side effects

Dosing

Indian Cassia & Pregnancy

Indian Cassia & Breastfeeding

References & further reading

Brands that make products with Indian Cassia

Supplement products with Indian Cassia

Indian Cassia: Common Questions

Related supplements & herbs

Products that contain Indian Cassia

Have a question about Indian Cassia?